Council Offers Free Saturday Parking. In Oldham.

Three hours gratis every weekend, in any council car park

OLDHAM Council is launching a free parking scheme to boost the town centre's weekend economy between now and the New Year.

Shoppers and visitors will be entitled free parking for a maximum stay of up to three hours, every Saturday from October 15 until January 14 2012, at all twelve council-owned town centre car parks.

“We’ve listened to the growing concerns about vacant shopping units and footfall and we needed to take action."

There will also be free all-day parking at Hobson Street, just off Union Street, on the same dates.

Oldham Council said it was making the investment – an estimated £78,000 in lost revenue – to ease the financial strain on residents and businesses during the current economic downturn, as well as boost footfall.

Jim McMahon, leader of Oldham Council, said: “A thriving town centre is vital to Oldham’s economy and the Council has a duty to offer leadership and support in challenging times.”

“We’ve listened to the growing concerns about vacant shopping units and footfall and – whilst many economic factors are outside our influence – we needed to take action.

“All towns are affected by the UK retail downturn and Oldham also has the added complication of the ongoing Metrolink works, so we are being proactive to help both residents and traders alike.

“This offer represents three months of free town centre car parking on Saturdays and even extends beyond the January sales."

During the campaign, the free parking will apply at the following car parks: